[ronslow]

Found myself with a few PT fans last night. Why? I'm not a big PT fan myself. But Steve Wilson has come on. The Raven that Refused to Sing has some genuine touching moments in addition to the wall of sound which the PT fans are waiting for. Maybe an English lightness of touch and humour will come with the next album. The concert was, as you would expect, in full surround sound, with layered vocals creeping up behind you from nowhere. Steven himself, moving from behind what looked like a wooden Fender Rhodes piano centre stage, to rhythm guitar, directing a tight band, including the unmistakable Nick Beggs on bass and stick, and restrained light show. Some nice graphics behind the stage completed the visuals. It was a solid 2 hour set which took us through the new album, and allowed Steve to give us some of the oldies. There were times when the rig overwhelmed the intimate space of the Royal Festival Hall, but the fans were good natured, as ever, leaving happily for nearby Waterloo station at the end of an enjoyable evening.